STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A Christmas tradition continued in Stapleton Sunday night, as St. Paul's Memorial Episcopal Church hosted its annual Lessons and Carols concert.

Organizers estimated that about 150 people were on hand as Voyces and Young Voyces performed for "Hodie! A Festival of Lessons and Renaissance Carols."

Attendees heard nine "lessons," spoken by luminaries including the Rev. Monsignor James Dorney, the pastor emeritus of St. Paul's R.C. Church; Deputy Borough President Edward Burke and Dr. William Fritz, the interim president of the College of Staten Island.

"It is a privilege to hear such wonderful music, to listen to the ancient heralds and hymns of our faith in this Christmas time," said the Rev. Roy Cole, rector of St. John's Episcopal Church, who said that those in attendance also bear a responsibility to the community. "The responsibility that you and I share tonight is equal to the privilege is equal to the privilege that we share tonight --to take that message from this place and to all the places where God will greet us."

The annual event is based on a celebration of the season by a community in Victorian England.

Those in the audience included city Councilwoman Debi Rose and Stapleton matriarch Catherine "Mac" O'Callaghan, who was named an Advance Woman of Achievement in 1987.

The festival was dedicated to Mrs. O'Callaghan's daughter, Marjorie O'Callaghan Ryan, and Elaine Joseph, in honor of their work as community leaders.